Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the appointment of Sharmaarke Ahmed Mohamed Geelle as Somaliland’s new representative to Ethiopia, a move that comes at a time when relations between Hargeisa and Addis Ababa remain a significant factor in Horn of Africa politics.
In a statement, the ministry described Geelle as an experienced diplomat and public official with an extensive background in governance, diplomacy and international relations.
According to Somaliland authorities, he brings nearly 15 years of experience in public service and foreign affairs.
Geelle previously served at the Somaliland Presidency, where he headed the Office of the Council of Ministers’ Secretaries between 2015 and 2016.
In that role, he was involved in coordinating government activities and supporting cabinet-level decision-making processes.
He also served as Chairman of Somaliland’s Civil Service Commission, overseeing reforms aimed at improving government efficiency, strengthening institutional performance and enhancing public service delivery.
In the diplomatic sphere, Geelle worked as Deputy Representative of Somaliland in Kenya, where he played a role in managing Somaliland’s regional relations and diplomatic engagement.
The Foreign Ministry said his new assignment will focus on strengthening Somaliland’s ties with Ethiopia, particularly in the areas of politics, trade, investment and regional cooperation.
Ethiopia and Somaliland have maintained close political and economic relations for years, cooperating on issues including trade, security, migration and regional connectivity.
Ethiopia also places strategic importance on access to regional ports and maritime trade routes.
Geelle’s appointment comes amid a sensitive diplomatic environment in the Horn of Africa.
Somaliland continues its efforts to expand international engagement and build support among regional governments and institutions, while Ethiopia remains focused on securing long-term solutions to its maritime access needs.
Relations between Hargeisa and Addis Ababa have drawn significant attention since January 2024, when the two sides signed a memorandum of understanding concerning maritime access.
The agreement triggered a major diplomatic dispute between Ethiopia and the Federal Government of Somalia.
Despite the controversy, Somaliland has continued to describe its relationship with Ethiopia as strategic.
Somaliland officials have repeatedly emphasized Ethiopia’s importance as a key regional partner in trade, security and economic cooperation.
As Somaliland’s new representative in Addis Ababa, Geelle is expected to play a central role in advancing Somaliland’s interests and deepening engagement with Ethiopian authorities.
The appointment also highlights the importance Somaliland places on its diplomatic presence in Ethiopia at a time when the Horn of Africa is witnessing increased competition over ports, trade corridors, maritime access and regional influence.
Somaliland has long sought international recognition as an independent state, while Somalia’s Federal Government maintains that Somaliland remains part of its sovereign territory.
As a result, developments in Somaliland’s external relations often carry broader political implications beyond bilateral cooperation.
Geelle’s appointment is therefore seen as another step in Somaliland’s efforts to reinforce its partnership with Ethiopia as both sides seek to expand cooperation in areas of shared strategic interest.